Discover The Magic Of Pf Chang Sauce: How To Make The Best Sesame Chicken!

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
• Salt and black pepper: To taste
• Vegetable oil: For frying

For the PF Chang‘s Sauce:

• Soy sauce: 1/2 cup
• Rice vinegar: 1/4 cup
• Brown sugar: 1/4 cup
• Honey: 1/4 cup
• Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
• Ground ginger: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

For the Sesame Coating:

• Sesame seeds: 1/2 cup
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Culinary Adventure

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
• In a shallow dish, combine the flour and cornstarch.
• Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

2. Fry the Chicken

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

3. Craft the PF Chang’s Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

• Return the fried chicken to the skillet or wok.
• Pour the PF Chang’s sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced and become slightly caramelized.

5. Prepare the Sesame Coating

• In a small bowl, combine the sesame seeds, sugar, and cinnamon.

6. Coat the Chicken with Sesame

• Remove the chicken from the heat and immediately toss it in the sesame coating.
• Ensure that all the chicken pieces are evenly coated.

7. Serve and Savor

• Serve the sesame chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Culinary Tips for Perfection

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the pieces in the flour mixture.
• Use a combination of vegetable oils with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• If the PF Chang’s sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
• To save time, you can use frozen chicken strips or nuggets.

The Art of Garnishing

• Sprinkle green onions or chopped cilantro over the sesame chicken for a pop of color and freshness.
• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve with a side of orange wedges to balance the sweetness of the sauce.

Complementary Sides to Elevate Your Meal

• Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful and healthy addition, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Egg Noodles: A chewy and satisfying option that complements the crispy chicken.
• Wonton Soup: A warm and comforting soup to start or end your meal.

Spice Up Your Sesame Chicken

• Add a touch of heat with a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha sauce.
• Experiment with different sauces, such as hoisin sauce or sweet and sour sauce.
• Incorporate other vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or bamboo shoots.
• Top with crushed peanuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

A Culinary Conclusion: Embracing the Flavors of the Orient

Mastering the art of sesame chicken with PF Chang’s sauce is a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. Follow these step-by-step instructions, embrace the culinary tips, and experiment with different variations to create a dish that is both authentic and uniquely your own. As you savor this oriental delicacy, remember that cooking is not merely about following recipes but about exploring flavors and creating memories through food.

Questions You May Have

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

2. How can I make the sauce less sweet?
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey in the sauce to your preference.

3. Can I store leftover sesame chicken?
Yes, you can store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

4. What is a good substitute for sesame seeds?
If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can use crushed peanuts, chopped almonds, or breadcrumbs as a coating.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.